Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85435
TES Class T DRIVE P RESHAPED New Peterbilt Model 579 offers a blend of fuel-efficiency enhancements, sleek styling and driver comfort. BY JACK ROBERTS The 579's aerodynamic design can deliver substantial fuel savings. eterbilt has introduced the aerodynamic Model 579, based on an all-new chassis and cab. Andy Weiblen, one of its designers, says the new truck integrates everything that has happened to heavy-duty trucks in recent years. The truck's sleek frontal design is striking when you consider that Peterbilt's legacy was built with large, flat-nosed conventionals. "We have a responsibility to honor that heritage in a way that says, 'This is a Peterbilt,' while giving our customers that absolute latest in modern design and technology to help them compete in the real world," Weiblen says. If the 579 looks more compact than most Class 8 tractors, it's because this is the cleanest, most aerodynamic overall tractor design in Peterbilt's history. The nose on the new truck is 2 inches lower than anything else the company offers. Every flat edge has been rounded to facilitate airflow. The front windshield is higher and blends seamlessly into an air dam above the cab. The A pillars are noticeably thinner – optimizing both visibility and airflow – while details such as the cab marker lights were subjected to air-fluidity testing to achieve the ideal locations. Different configurations are 48 OVERDRIVE MAY 2012 Photos by Brian Blevins